Canal multiple-use

SRP continues to work with cities and developers to integrate portions of the canal
system into recreational and commercial development projects.

Canal multiple-use developments are a growing trend in the Valley and currently more than 60 miles of multi-use trails have been developed on the canal banks.
Nearly every city in the project's water service territory is
constructing or planning projects.

Partnering with cities

SRP works with each city throughout the design process to ensure compatibility
with SRP's operational and maintenance needs for the canal system.
Projects typically include paved trails, lighting, landscaping, public art and user amenities such as seating, shade structures and pet stations. s

Arizona Falls hydroelectric project. This key project is
located east of 56th Street along Indian School Road on the Arizona Canal.
SRP and the City of Phoenix worked together to integrate a hydro generation
project by SRP with canal bank beautification and interpretive structural design that
will provide not only power generation and recreational opportunities but serve
as an educational source related to hydro generation, canal and area history and
alternative energy such as solar power. An interactive tour is available to those who visit Arizona Falls.

Canal interpretive sites. In a cooperative effort with the United States Bureau of Reclamation, SRP has developing and installed historic interpretive signs throughout the canal system.

History of canal recreation

SRP has allowed licensed recreational use of the canal banks since 1964
when the first recreational use agreement was signed by Maricopa County
for the Sun Circle trail, a multi-purpose trail that circles the valley following
nearly 68 miles of canal. Since then, other cities have constructed paved
and lighted bike paths, bankside landscaping and public art features.

Please note: The canal system is an active operating water delivery system.
Any use of the canal banks by the public is done at the user's own risk, and SRP
cannot represent that the canal banks are safe for any recreational use.